He came, he saw, he conquered—all without saying a word. Only a thumbs up and a local tournament championship proved that he was even there. He is… the Masked Smasher.
A local weekly Super Smash Bros. tournament in Edmonton, Alberta became the sight of one of esports’ more bizarre and enigmatic tales on Saturday when one entrant, clad in a ski-mask and sunglasses, won the contest without eating, drinking, or speaking. When asked for his name at the registration table, the masked individual simply wrote “Falcomaster3000.”
One attendee recounted his mysterious appearance in a YouTube video.
Throughout the nine-hour contest, the “Masked Smasher” summarily dismissed other players on his (apparently) signature Falco. When matchups were unfavorable, he would switch to Marth or Fox, demonstrating equally clean skill and poise on either. Only in the grand finals did he appear to have any trouble, but not once did he speak, eat, or drink, according to those at the event.
He even took a turn broadcasting. You can guess how that went…
After taking the title, the Masked Smasher stood up before the mesmerized crowd. “Take it off!” they chanted. He responded with the only communication he had mustered throughout the event: a single thumbs-up.
Since then, the legend of the Masked Smasher has taken on a life of its own. Some speculate that it was Smash legend Mew2King, since his scrawny physique was similar to that of Jason “Mew2King” Zimmerman. Others speculate that it was Kris “Toph” Aldenderfer, pointing out the fuzzy-collared coat from the YouTube footage. Still others believe it was the spirit of Super Smash Bros. Melee itself.
Safe money rests with just some random guy who’s really good at Falco.
For now, the identity of the Masked Smasher remains a mystery. Many, including those who were present for the proceedings, feel that we may never know his true identity, and perhaps that’s for the best. After all, even Batman’s true power comes in not knowing where the masked avenger may strike next.
